JFH Staff Review

Casting Crowns is looked upon as one of CCM's greatest artists. With frequently played radio hits,
it's not complex to understand that this seven piece band isn't departing anywhere anytime soon - although they haven't really
shined with their latest release, The Altar and The Door. That's why I prefer to reflect upon their 2003, debut self
titled album, Casting Crowns.

The record kicks off with "What If His People Prayed," a song encouraging people to stop turning to things like Oprah and
Dr. Phil for their problems and instead turn to God. The second track and hit single, "If We Are The Body" explains how we,
the body of Christ, need to be lights unto the world. This song has had its fair deal of overplayed goodness on the radio and is
featured on the WOW #1s compilation. Another hugely successful track is "Voice of Truth," a song that reminds the
listener that all things are possible through Christ who strengthens you. Personally, the best song on the album would have to
be "Who Am I." This song really comes in handy when remembering how much Jesus loves us, "Who am I, that the Lord of all the
earth/ Would Care to know my name/ Would care to feel my hurt."

The next track "American Dream" also had its fair play on the radio, even becoming an adequete yet unessecary music video.
The tempo of the album slows down once again with "Here I Go Again," a song which refects upon attempting to save a non
believer. It's a perfect example of what this generation is facing. The worship flavored track "Praise You With The Dance"
is surprisingly not sung by vocalist Mark Hall. Instead, the vocals are handed over to the female singers in the group. The
worship atmosphere flows all the way through to the tenth and final track, "Your Love is Extravagant."

This is indeed a very successful debut for Casting Crowns. Exceeding so many radio hits you can't help to wonder why they
haven't sounded very significant lately (as of 2007). Casting Crowns truly outdid themselves with this record. This album is
highly recommendable to any lover of CCM.

JFH Staff's Additional 2 Cents

I may be among the minority that was completely underwhelmed by this album, but although Casting Crowns' debut stirred
and captured the hearts of many a believer (not that there's anything wrong with that), it'd be difficult to argue
that their first effort adds very little that's fresh musically, being that it's ultimately standard adult contemporary material.
In ten years, this album won't be seen with the kind of
musical impact as, say, Jars Of Clay's debut, but like them or not, you have to give kudos to these guys for not being afraid
to say things to the church others may be too timid to - even if it's not done as eloquently as it could be...
- 2/8/08, John DiBiase